Even if your job doesn't involve creating or producing something, you're bound to have days when you're tempted to just phone it in and make it out alive. For those days, try stashing some of your best ideas away for days when your skills are tested but you don't feel up to it.

The same way you'd save money for a rainy day or a future need, do the same with your ideas. Over at LifeDev, the notion is framed as a way to help writers stay consistent and avoid writer's block by trading days with more ideas than time for days where it's tough to stay motivated.

You don't have to have a job that involves producing a creative product to use this strategy. Even if you're a network administrator but you know of a tool that will make network maintenance easier, it can be tempting to rush out and ask your boss for it immediately. If you're already working on other projects, it might be a good idea to stash the idea and save it for a time when you really want to shine.

How do you get through your creative dry spells? The temptation to just glide through is strong, but it's got to stop somewhere. Share your tips below. Photo by Tim.